Concern raised by MP over UK climate goals progress
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Gordon MP Richard Thomson has voiced concern over the independent Climate Change Committee’s progress report on the UK Government’s programmes to achieve net zero which has found major failures in delivery programmes towards the achievement of the UK’s climate goals.
The Climate Change Committee is an independent, statutory body established under the Climate Change Act 2008.
Its purpose is to advise the UK and national governments on emissions targets and to report to the UK Parliament on progress made in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for and adapting to the impacts of climate change.
Commenting on the report, Mr Thomson said: “While it’s clear that much more can and should be done to tackle climate change, this progress report on the UK Government’s actions to date to achieve net zero gives very real cause for concern.
“The committee chairman, who is a former Conservative Secretary of State for the Environment, has told the media that he is 'very worried that there’s no convincing programme for delivering policies' and doesn’t believe the UK Government is moving fast enough on these important issues.
“The report itself states that low-carbon options remain in their infancy and that UK Government policy has not yet begun to guide the promised private sector action.
“While the committee chairman rightly criticises the UK Government’s 'lack of sensible policy' on home insulation and said that it was 'scandalous' that homes are still being built that don’t prioritise insulation and will require retro-fitting, this contrasts strongly with the Scottish Government’s statement that new build homes are also are energy efficient and zero carbon.
"Not only is it vital for our climate responsibilities but it will help ensure energy costs in the future are affordable.
"The Scottish Government’s recent investment of at least £1.8 billion in the Heat in Buildings Strategy will help deliver this.
“What is needed from the UK Government is a credible plan to secure a net zero and climate resilient future for the generations to come.”
